Apply for WBS: Tenant Guide in Germany
Many tenants in Germany wonder how families or shared flats (WGs) can correctly apply for the housing entitlement certificate (WBS). This guide explains in clear language which documents are required, when a WBS is useful and how to avoid common mistakes. I describe concrete practical cases for families and provide tips on how WGs can optimize their application, for example regarding income assessment or consolidating household proof. You will also find guidance on deadlines, contacting authorities and legal steps in case of problems with the application or rejection. At the end there are FAQs, a step-by-step guide and official links to laws and forms so you can act purposefully.[1]
What is the WBS and who needs it?
The housing entitlement certificate (WBS) is a certificate that entitles you to rent subsidized housing. Families with low incomes and certain households in WGs use the WBS to access social housing. The responsible authorities are the local housing offices or district offices; the rules are based on subsidy law and state law.[2]
Which documents are typically required?
- Application form from the housing office or city administration (fully completed).
- Identity card or passport with registration certificate.
- Income proofs for the last three months (salary statements, notices).
- Proofs of children or dependents (birth certificates, benefit notices).
- Proofs of rental costs or housing circumstances, if available.
Example: A family with two children submits ID, registration certificate, the last three salary statements and the birth certificates. A WG can attach collective documents, plus clear household overviews and agreements of roommates.
Forms and official sources
The specific application form is usually called "Application for Issuance of a Housing Entitlement Certificate" and is provided by the respective city or district. Example: Berlin provides information and a form on its official site. Further legal bases can be found in federal and state regulations.[1]
What to do in case of rejection or queries?
If your application is rejected, request the reasoning in writing and check deadlines for objection or resubmission. For formal errors, simply submitting missing documents often suffices. For unclear legal questions, the local court (Amtsgericht) can be the first judicial instance; tenancy issues are additionally governed by provisions in the BGB.[1]
Practical tips for families and WGs
- Organize documents chronologically and make copies of all papers.
- Create a brief overview of household finances with income and rent.
- If possible, schedule an appointment with the housing office in advance to clarify questions.
FAQ
- Who may apply for a WBS?
- Persons and households eligible according to the applicable income limits of the respective subsidy regulation; details are governed by housing subsidy law and the responsible authority.
- How long is a WBS valid?
- Validity varies by federal state, often one to two years; the exact period is stated on the issued certificate.
- Does a WG need a separate WBS for each roommate?
- Not necessarily; depending on the subsidy rules, WGs may be considered one household or may require multiple entitlements. Clarify this with the housing office.
How-To
- Collect all required documents (ID, income proofs, dependents' proofs).
- Download the official application form from your city website or obtain it from the housing office.
- Complete the form fully, sign it and attach copies of the proofs.
- Submit the complete application in person, by post or electronically and note the receipt date and contact person.
- If documents are missing or the application is rejected, file an objection or submit missing documents within the deadline.
Key takeaways
- Prepare complete and legible copies of all documents before submission.
- Clarify household status for WGs with the housing office early.
